Archive for 'Travel'

Wedding Photography can have so many facets. From the Engagement through the Wedding itself, it’s a whirlwind of sessions, and many times the stress involved for a couple can be nearly overwhelming.
Typically, many couples are forced to choose a wedding venue based on the size of their guest list and the many accommodations needed for a large wedding party, thus their dreamy idea of an isolated mountaintop are cast aside for the more practical locations.

For Jennifer and Neil , they opted to fulfill their dream with a Day After Session in the wilds of Boone, North Carolina.
We had actually attempted scheduling the shoot several times, but had to delay each time because of snow in the mountains. Finally, with the temperatures barely reaching 50 degrees, we traveled the Blue Ridge Parkway in search of a ridge we had only ever read about.

We were dressed for hiking, and in addition to all the camera gear, we were also carrying all the required wedding attire. You can only imagine the looks we received along the trail that day. After a lengthy hike, which included crossing over downed trees, we reached a spot that could double as a dressing room of sorts. Walking several yards off the trail, Neil and I held a sheet behind which Jennifer changed into her wedding gown. The process was repeated as Neil donned his tux.

We continued with our hike, albeit much slower. If we thought people were staring before, it was nothing like the looks this couple were now receiving from the other hikers along trail. They were sudden celebrities and hikers stopped to talk, and wish them congratulations on their wedding. Here we were, miles from civilization on a windy mountaintop. It was just surreal. Both the couple and myself felt the amazing peacefulness of our surroundings envelope us. It was honestly one of the most amazing moments I’ve had as a photographer. I could easily picture shooting an elopement from this scenic spot — it was inspiring and captivating to say the least.

Once the sun began to ebb, the shadows suddenly fell over the mountains, leaving us chilled and ready for the trek back down the trail. Using our flashlight apps, we navigated our way down the mountain and back into civilization. But for a short while, we were at the top of creation in our own world. A world filled with dreams and inspiration. A world in which Jennifer and Neil will now travel together as husband and wife.

“Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things you didn’t do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines, sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover.” – Mark Twain

Two people expressing their love for one another is always special. You can often witness this love at the park, a quiet restaurant, or even at the local grocery store. This time, the love I witnessed was halfway around the world in a quaint little town called Nin.

Nin, located near the Mediterranean Sea, is a fascinating town, rich in history. The city centre is linked to the mainland by two stone bridges erected in the 16th century, and is within walking distance from the beautiful beaches which abound in this locale. Just imagine the romance that can be found in a place like this! When I travel, I always love meeting and staying with the locals. No Travelocity review can truly allow you to experience cultures the way you can with the locals, and I happened to know the locals perfect for this experience.

I met Tome and Bernarda online, and we quickly became friends. So when I traveled to Zadar it was only natural that we should meet in person. Our arranged spot was the Old City Centre in Zadar and from there, we traveled to Nin. A secret spot, known only to the locals, was our destination. We drove a few miles down a road that barely was large enough for a car, which ended at an overlook of the sea with the most amazing sunset.

The entire experience was magical — two people in love, an exotic location, waves crashing below a perfect sunset — it just doesn’t get any better than this!

“We travel not to escape life, but for life not to escape us.” – Anonymous